Nigerian Local Airfares Surge Over 100% Amid Christmas Travel Demand

The surge in travel demand during the Christmas season in Nigeria has caused local airfares to increase by over 100%, with passengers facing limited seat availability and higher ticket prices. Airlines are already fully booked on popular routes like Lagos to Enugu, with ticket prices doubling or even tripling compared to traditional fares.

Stakeholders are concerned that the scarcity of aircraft due to maintenance issues and foreign exchange shortages may lead to flight delays and cancellations, impacting both domestic and diaspora passengers. Ndukwe Ginika Ogechi, CEO of Geena Travel & Tour Limited, highlighted the challenges faced by average Nigerians in affording flights during this period.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has also faced issues with grounding aircraft for maintenance, further exacerbating the situation.